Serco NorthLink react to strike action

Secro NorthLink has issued a statement following  yesterday’s strike announcement by the RMT union, saying they are “dismayed and surprised” by the move.

Stuart Garrett, managing director of Serco NorthLink, said: “Serco NorthLink Ferries was today advised of proposed strike dates by the RMT after trying to make contact with them several times over the last week. Therefore, we are dismayed and surprised at this announcement.

“We notified the staff of our proposals to tailor crew numbers to passenger demand as early as June and began formal consultations in mid-October. As we informed the unions, at a meeting on 13 November, there would be no requirement for compulsory redundancies. We therefore fail to understand why the RMT is continuing with industrial action.

“Thirty-six employees have applied for voluntary redundancy and are already starting to leave the business.  They will receive an enhanced redundancy package, which significantly exceeds the statutory requirements. We continue to offer very favourable terms and conditions, including commitment to a three-year pay deal that commenced last year.  This deal saw all seafaring staff receive a 4.25 per cent pay rise this year, nearly double the rate of inflation and they will receive the same next year.

“The Scottish transport minister today highlighted, in a written Parliamentary Answer, that the staffing changes proposed will actually have a positive impact locally, due to the requirement for more seasonal and temporary labour. I am confident that we will actually employ more local people.

“If the RMT insists on proceeding with this industrial action, we will be looking to maintain as many services as possible to minimise disruption to the public, particularly given the difficulties this action could cause to people’s travel plans over the festive period.”